Over the years, there have been many changing recommendations on the foods people eat. For years, margarine was said to be better than butter, but trans fats were eventually found to be unhealthy. Egg yolks were removed when people started fearing the fat within them. Saccharin in sodas and drinks was unhealthy, then healthy, and is now iffy.
Here are some of the most fascinating studies regarding foods and health. If you’re looking for foods to add to your parents’ diet, these are foods you shouldn’t overlook.
Barley
Several studies have taken a closer look at barley. In these studies, it was found that those with type 2 diabetes and heart disease may benefit from making barley a regular part of the diet. The soluble fiber in barley helps lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure.
Blueberries
Antioxidants are essential to cell health. They help with immune function, too. Blueberries get a special mention because of their anthocyanins. Anthocyanins help fight inflammation. They allegedly help lower the risk of certain cancers, health disease, obesity, and diabetes. They also aid vascular function.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are often the vegetables that give off a sulfurous odor when you cook them. They include broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, and many others. Not only are these vegetables high in nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and folate, they also contain high levels of glucosinolates.
Glucosinolates break down into compounds like indoles and isothiocyanates. They’ve been linked to a lowered risk of several cancers. Studies find them to be especially helpful at lowering the risk of breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers.
Lentils
Lentils are one of the most versatile dried legumes around. They help form tasty veggie burgers. Turn them into the meat substitute in chili. Let cooked lentils cool and mix them with lemon juice, olive oil, red peppers, garlic, green onions, and salt and pepper for a quick summer salad.
They’re also high in polyphenols. Research suggests polyphenols can lower the risk of certain cancers, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. They’re also high in antioxidants that can help with immune function.
Tea
Black and green tea are both touted for the health benefits they offer. Both of these teas are packed with compounds that help fight inflammation throughout the body. Drink it hot or iced and gain the benefits from the flavonoids that are believed to help lower the risk of everything from certain cancers to heart disease.
Are your parents having a harder time eating healthy? Do they find it difficult to plan and cook nutritious meals? If they’re purchasing canned, processed foods more often, it’s time to look into caregivers who can help.
Home care agencies work with you to have caregivers go to your parents’ home. There, they can cook meals, take your parents to the grocery store, and clean up the kitchen. They’ll eat better and be happier with regular visits from a friend.
If you, or an aging loved-one, are considering hiring Elderly Care in Rancho Santa Fe, CA , or the Surrounding San Diego Area, please contact the caring staff at GoldenCare today.
Call us at (760) 828-5201 today.
Call us at (760) 828-5201 today.
Source:
https://Ars.usda.gov
Source:
https://Academic.oup.com
Source:
https://Cancer.gov
Source:
https://Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Source:
https://Health.harvard.edu
